For actor Heital Puniwala, known for his work in Oh My God, Despatch, The Crew, and Special Ops, tea is much more than a daily beverage. It is a ritual, a memory, and a source of connection that brings people together. On the occasion of International Tea Day, observed on May 21, the actor opened up about his relationship with tea, the childhood memories attached to it, and why he believes the conversations shared over a cup are far more important than the drink itself.
Describing his ideal cup of tea, Heital was clear that perfection lies in balance.
“A perfect tea should be perfect in every way,” he said. “It should be strong and have just the right amount of sugar. If it is too sweet or not strong enough, you won't enjoy it. I am a tea person, but I only have one cup a day. That one cup has to be strong, sweet, spicy, and aromatic enough to refresh the soul. If I get that, my entire day feels complete.”
His fondness for tea, however, began during childhood when it was considered a privilege rather than an everyday indulgence.
“Tea wasn't usually given to children in our home. We didn't have enough resources to buy extra tea, and even though it was prepared every morning, we weren't allowed to drink it. Sometimes, the things you cannot have become the things you desire the most,” he recalled.
One childhood memory, in particular, remains close to his heart. On his daily walk to school, Heital would pass a local tea stall run by a kind-hearted vendor.
“Every day I would greet him with a ‘Jai Shri Krishna,’ and he would always smile. One day, he offered me a cup of tea. I told him I didn't have money, but he insisted. His tea was wonderful, and after that, it became a routine. I would greet him, and he would immediately prepare a cup for me. Those moments remain among my most cherished memories,” he shared.
While Heital appreciates a well-made cup of tea, he believes its real significance lies in the company it brings together.
“What truly matters is the conversation that happens over tea. People don't gather at tea stalls only for the beverage; they gather because tea creates space for dialogue. You exchange ideas, hear different perspectives, talk about friendship, life, and experiences. Those conversations are what make tea special,” he explained.
According to him, tea also carries an emotional dimension.
“If someone is feeling low or emotionally exhausted, sitting down with good company over a cup of tea can completely change their mood. I've seen it happen many times. Tea has a way of bringing comfort and positive energy into a moment,” he said.
When asked who he would most like to share a cup of tea with, Heital's answer reflected both admiration and gratitude.
“If I ever got the opportunity to have tea with anyone in the world, I would consider myself very fortunate if it were Narendra Modi. He is a role model for millions and has inspired people across the country and beyond. Sharing a cup of tea with him would be a memorable experience,” he said.
He also mentioned spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as another person he would love to meet over tea.
“Another person would be my guru, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. I'm not even sure whether he or Narendra Modi drinks tea, but if I ever got that opportunity, it would truly be the icing on the cake,” he added.
For Heital Puniwala, tea represents warmth, nostalgia, connection, and the simple moments that often become life's most meaningful memories. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with others, a perfect cup of tea remains one of his greatest everyday pleasures.
